Each month we spotlight a different CFA athlete who stands out and shows just how awesome they are. What is it that makes up an Athlete of the Month? It may not be the person that finishes the fastest, Rx’s every WOD, or gets a PR every time they walk in the gym. Although we love and celebrate when those things happen, the Athlete of the Month is made up of much more than physical ability. This person shows up, gives their best every time, and then gives a little more. They are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work. They support their fellow classmates and encourage them to reach their goals. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit Austin Community should be about.
Our June Athlete of the Month is Andrea Duarte! Andrea (aka “Mighty Mouse”) joined CFA in August of 2022 as an experienced and enthusiastic CrossFitter after relocating from Houston. Finding community here has turned her from a former Open Gym goer to a bona fide 7:30am 7:40am regular! Andrea is coachable, consistent, and often found rallying her classmates for the cash out, mobility homework, or a post-WOD walk. She’s our Latin-music-jamming, Harry-Potter-loving, colorful, pint-sized powerhouse and “all things CrossFit” nerd. We’re so excited to see how much she’s blossomed in her short time here. We’ve loved being part of the journey with her so far and celebrating the wins along the way! Andrea, we are honored to have you as our June Athlete of the Month and as an awesome part of this team. Thanks for all your hard work and we look forward to seeing all you accomplish in the years to come! Congratulations!
Words to live by?
Better late than never 😉 My 7:30 fam knows.
What is your fitness background?
I’ve been involved in a variety of sports and activities since I was young
How long have you been CrossFitting?
I’ve been doing CrossFit for about 3 years now.
Take us back to your first day of CrossFit… How did you feel? How do you compare it to workouts today?
I felt anxious and overwhelmed. However, after a couple of classes, I was hooked and found myself wanting more. Now, I can’t pass up an opportunity to talk about CrossFit. As for comparing workouts then and now, I’ve made significant progress in terms of strength, endurance, and overall fitness. I feel more confident and capable in my abilities.
What’s your favorite part of CrossFit Austin?
Without a doubt, it’s the coaches. Their expertise, guidance, and support have been invaluable in my fitness journey.
Current Training Goals/PRs?
My current training goal is to achieve my first ring muscle up.
What advice do you have for folks just starting out in CrossFit?
Progress takes time. Be patient with yourself, trust the process, and enjoy each step of your journey. Embrace the learning experience and celebrate your achievements (with the awesome community) along the way.
How do you balance staying focused in your training when life gets busy?
I’ve found that training early in the morning works best for me. By prioritizing my workout at the beginning of the day, I ensure that nothing else gets in the way of my training, even when life gets busy.
What is your cheat meal go-to?
My go-to options are plantains or sushi.
How do you use your fitness outside of the gym?
I am able to be independent when it comes to carrying heavy things and being resilient to pain and uncomfortable situations.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your fitness journey?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is learning to love and appreciate my body at every stage of my journey. It’s an ongoing process of self-acceptance and embracing the changes that come with progress.
Tell us about a moment you felt most proud of yourself during a workout.
Squatting has been a challenging exercise for me, so completing a workout that includes squats is a major accomplishment.
If you could create a WOD and name it for yourself, what would it be?
My personalized WOD would be called “down to hell”: 10-1 handstand push-ups, toes-to-bar, and deadlifts 215 lbs
What keeps you going on the days you don’t feel like it?
On those days when motivation is low, the support and friendship of the CrossFit community play a significant role in keeping me going. However, I firmly believe that it’s essential to listen to your body and acknowledge when rest or scaling back is necessary. Taking care of oneself is just as important as pushing through challenging workouts.
What are your hobbies, interests, and/or talents outside of CrossFit?
I love art and self expression so you’ll find me dancing, acting, painting or doing anything that involves creativity.
Tell us something we don’t know about you?
Every Sunday, I drink a Monster energy drink but I pour it into a fancy cup just to feel like I’ve made it. It’s my quirky way of adding a touch of luxury to my day and treating myself lol
My go-to options are plantains or sushi.